Columbia’s 4 Best Hole-in-the-Walls
Melissa Mesnick ‘21
Beezer’s: Beezer’s fits the stereotype of your classic hole-in-the-wall sandwich shop. It’s tucked in a little storefront not even a block from the Horseshoe. It has a red-lit sign that makes it hard to miss from the side of the road. The people who work there are always happy to see you, no matter what time it is. Beezer’s sells day-old bread that they did not use the previous day for a discounted price, and it is something you do not want to miss! A classic spring or fall afternoon on campus should definitely include stopping by Beezer’s and bringing it to picnic on the Horseshoe. It is also a great post-football game meal. It is open late so when you are hungry at midnight and craving a good sandwich, Beezer’s has your back.
Hibachi House: Hibachi House is located about two blocks down the street from the Jones Physical Science building. The building itself is easy to miss, but the cuisine is not something you will want to go without. The food always comes to the table piping hot and smelling like the best $8 you ever spent. The atmosphere and menu are simple, which add to the experience. While they may not cook the food in front of you, the long-lasting memories of talking with your friends will make the experience special. Hibachi House is the place every freshman discovers within their first month of being on campus and returns even after they graduate.
Menkoi Ramen House: Menkoi Ramen House is not your typical college ramen in a cup. Take a little walk to The Vista in Downtown Columbia to experience this not-so best kept secret Japanese culinary experience. The menu is limited, but like every great hole-in-the-wall, you cannot order a bad meal. The portions are enough for multiple meals. Menkoi is the perfect place to go on a rainy day when you want something warm. Both the chicken ramen and the spicy are a go-to for many hungry college students. The noodles are perfect every time — much better than the 50-cent ramen from the grocery store. You learn a lot about the culture through food, especially when it is so delicious! While you’re encouraged to use chopsticks, forks are provided for those who are not skilled and do not want to wear half of their meal. It is easy to stay in the Ramen House for hours on end, as the homey atmosphere makes you lose track of time.
Rosewood Dairy Bar: The Rosewood Dairy bar is just shy of two miles from the Horseshoe and has the most aesthetically pleasing ice cream you have ever seen. There are no more than 10 parking spots with indoor and outdoor seating. The staff is friendly and quick, getting your food out to you before you can pay. It is a great place to grab a casual dinner with friends, especially if your budget is getting slimmer by the day. Sometimes, you just need some good, greasy food. Rosewood Dairy Bar has been serving the city of Columbia since 1942. The décor looks like it is from the 1970s and gives you a taste of what simpler times were like with the simple, yet joyful, atmosphere. It is the ideal spot to spend a summer night. The small ice cream is only $2 and is as big as your head. Ask for the ice cream to be dunked in sprinkles for an Instagram-worthy picture. Fairy lights are lit at night to reveal a great summer spot to hang out with friends.
